Michigan Granted 30-Day Extension to Post Rate Filings

(LANSING) The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved a 30-day extension request made by the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS). The extension allows for state officials to postpone the release of the proposed 2018 health care rate changes until September 1, 2017.

DIFS issued Bulletin No 2017-05-INS on March 31, 2017 outlining key dates related to health insurance rate filings for plan year 2018. Since the Bulletin was issued, there were several significant developments impacting the individual health insurance market in Michigan for 2018.

“DIFS has delayed the posting date for proposed rate changes after discussion with CMS officials. This will allow flexibility should the uncertainty at the Federal level, particularly on the cost share reduction (CSR) issue, be resolved,” said DIFS Director Patrick McPharlin.

The new posting date for proposed rates is September 1, 2017. There will be a two-week comment period after that date during which the Department invites public comment on the proposed rates.

Open enrollment for 2018 begins on November 1, 2017 and continues through December 15, 2017. Consumers are encouraged to contact their insurer, agent, or navigator regarding how these rate changes could affect their policy. There are also shopping tools, rate comparisons and resources available on the DIFS Health Insurance Consumer Assistance Program’s (HICAP) website, www.michigan.gov/hicap and the Healthcare.gov website.